NCW seeks swift POCSO action in Bawana nursery assault case
NCW takes suo motu cognisance of Bawana nursery student's sexual assault, demands fast probe, POCSO charges, and victim support.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has intervened in the alleged sexual assault of a three-year-old nursery student at a private school in Delhi's Bawana area, demanding swift and stringent legal action against the accused bus driver.
Commission chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Delhi Police Commissioner, urging an expeditious investigation. The NCW has specifically called for custodial interrogation of the accused and strict application of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The panel has also directed authorities to examine the accused's mobile phone and video footage to check for other potential victims. It has asked for preservation of CCTV recordings and physical evidence, alongside a thorough review of safety protocols and verification procedures at the school.
The Commission has stressed the need for protection, specialised psychological counselling, legal aid, and compensation for the survivor, her family, and any other affected children. It has sought an Action Taken Report within seven days, covering investigation progress, forensic results, chargesheet timelines, and institutional oversight measures.
"The safety of children in educational institutions is non-negotiable," the NCW stated, adding that it will closely monitor the case to ensure accountability.
Police said the incident came to light on August 19 when the child's family noticed injuries. The girl later told her mother about a "bad uncle" at school who gave her chocolates. On August 24, she identified the accused from photographs and CCTV footage. The man was arrested from the school premises and booked under relevant POCSO sections and BNS Section 74.